Region: An alliance of 19 aid agencies urged the international community to avert a third consecutive year of “Christmas massacres” by the Lord Resistance Army rebels in central Africa. (AFP, BBC)

Region: The African Union announced a draft law that criminalizes terrorism and bans any kind of ransom payment. (AFP)

Sudan: Western nations offered Sudan economic incentives, including lifting US sanctions and reintegration with the World Bank, to tempt the country away from isolation if the south splits next year. (Reuters)

ASIA

Korea, South: The head of South Korea’s army, General Hwang Eui-don, resigned after reports linked him to a financial scandal. (BBC)